Barber in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a Barber in Tennessee
To become a licensed Master Barber in Tennessee, individuals must complete a 1500-hour training program and pass both the theory and practical portions of the PSI Barber Examination. The licensing body is the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and while a high school diploma was previously required, this is no longer enforced. Reciprocity is available for licensees from other states that have substantially similar requirements, with an application fee and verification of an active license.
Barber Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | 1500-hour training program |
| Experience Required | 1,500.0 hours |
| Exam | PSI Barber Examination (Theory and Practical) ($140) |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 16 years old. As of August 5, 2020, the requirement for a high school diploma, GED, or HiSET equivalence is no longer enforced. Reciprocity is available for licensees from other states with comparable requirements; a $100 fee applies, and proof of an active license and a 12th-grade education or equivalent is required. Five years of work experience may substitute for barbering school hours for reciprocity applicants. The exam consists of a theory and practical portion, each costing $70. |
Barber Salary in Tennessee
The median barber salary in Tennessee is $31,230 per year, which is 19.8% below the national median of $38,960.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $20,110 |
| 25th | $22,240 |
| 50th (median) | $31,230 |
| 75th | $41,600 |
| 90th (experienced) | $51,610 |
Tennessee employs approximately 280 barbers.
Barber Job Outlook
AI Impact on Barbers
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.73/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Barber in Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.